A Taste of Florence

A Naturopath’s Guide to Nourishing Food, Culture & Lifestyle

When travelling, it can be so valuable to have a little guidance, especially if you’re someone who is interested in living a more naturopathic lifestyle and supporting your health while away.

Having a few trusted recommendations can help you eat well, feel well, and still fully enjoy your experience.

As a naturopath and nutritional therapist, I truly believe you can’t get much better than Italy when it comes to a love of food, quality ingredients, and a slower, more nourishing way of life.

Florence has to be one of my favourite cities and if you get to explore the wider Tuscany region do take the oportunity it is wonderful and it will not disappoint.

From the moment you arrive in Florence , you’re immersed in a beautiful mix of historic architecture, winding streets, vibrant piazzas, and of course… incredible food.

Eating Well in Florence (Even Gluten & Dairy Free)

With Italy being the home of pizza, pasta, bread and cheese, do not fear that the food will not be the experience you hoped for! I’ll admit I was a little apprehensive before travelling, as I follow a gluten and dairy free diet.

However, if you’re in the same position, let me reassure you, Florence has so much to offer. I was genuinely amazed at how accommodating it is, and how easy it was to enjoy delicious food without compromise.

What stood out most from a naturopathic perspective was the simplicity and quality of ingredients, fresh, seasonal, and full of flavour. It’s a wonderful reminder that food doesn’t need to be complicated to be deeply nourishing.

Florence is filled with an abundance of well-known and much-loved spots such as the iconic Florence Cathedral (the Duomo), Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, the Uffizi Gallery and the beautiful Boboli Gardens.

Around almost every corner, you’re met with another stunning view, charming street or inviting café, it’s a city that effortlessly blends history, beauty and atmosphere.

However, alongside these iconic highlights, I also discovered some more hidden gems, places that felt a little more personal, nourishing and aligned with my approach to food and wellbeing, which I’d love to share with you below.

My Favourite Food Spots

If you’re planning a trip, here are some places I would highly recommend:

Circo & Sons (@ristoranteciroandsons) A must-visit. The food is fresh, authentic, and prepared with so much care and attention. They even have a separate gluten-free kitchen, which is incredibly reassuring if you’re avoiding gluten.Anything on the menu can be adapted gluten-free, lactose-free or vegan. My gluten-free pizza was one of the best I’ve ever had. FInd them on Instagram with some great reelson the city too! at https://www.instagram.com/ristoranteciroandsons/

Sgrano Firenze (@sgranofirenze)A fully gluten-free eatery offering pizza, pasta, bread, and takeaway sandwiches. Perfect if you want complete peace of mind. Find them on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sgranofirenze/

Quinoa Firenze (@quinoa_firenze)A lovely restaurant with a wide range of gluten-free dishes and a fresh, nourishing feel. find them on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/quinoa_firenze/

Grom (@gromgelato)If you’re looking for gelato, this is a great option with gluten-free cones and lactose-free choices available. Find them on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/gromgelato/

25hours Hotel Florence (@25hourshotel_florence)A beautiful hidden spot for a drink or meal, with a fun, modern interior and relaxed atmosphere. Find them on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/25hourshotel_florence/

Mercato Centrale (Florence Central Market)A must-visit for any food lover. Downstairs you’ll find fresh produce and local delicacies, while upstairs is a vibrant food hall where you can eat, drink, and soak up the atmosphere well into the evening.

A Visit to the World’s Oldest Pharmacy

If you love natural health & naturopathy you must visit the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella — the oldest pharmacy in the world, dating back to 1221. They continue to produce fragrances, herbal preparations, and remedies using ingredients grown in their own gardens — a true blend of history, nature, and wellbeing. As a naturopath, it was great to also see Hippocrates being highlighted too along with other many great names in the industry! It’s a beautiful reminder of the deep roots of herbal medicine and natural remedies, many of which are still used today. You can find them on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/santamarianovella1221/

And a little hidden gem if you visit Hotel Savoy Florence, you’ll find some of their natural liqueurs on offer, which is a lovely way to experience their creations in a different setting. Find them at https://www.instagram.com/hotelsavoyflorence/

You’ll also find a number of naturopathic-style pharmacies and herbal stores across Florence, which is wonderful if you’re looking for natural support while travelling or simply want to explore Italy’s rich herbal traditions further.

There is something truly life-affirming about watching the sun set on another day, and in Florence it’s an experience not to be missed. A trip to watch the sunset over the city is a must as the light softens and the rooftops glow, it offers a moment to pause, reflect and fully take in the beauty around you. Take a walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo. From here, you get a stunning panoramic view over the whole city, including the Florence Cathedral, the river Arno, and the rooftops stretching across Florence. As the sun goes down, the light over the terracotta buildings is absolutely beautiful.

As you explore the old town, also keep an eye out for the charming little “wine windows” small doors built into the walls where wine was once served directly from Tuscan producers. These historic details are dotted throughout the city and offer a lovely glimpse into Florence’s rich culture and connection to the Tuscany region.

Beyond Florence: The Beauty of Tuscany

If you get the chance to head beyond the city into Tuscany, I would highly recommend it.

The rolling hills, vineyards, and slower pace of life are absolutely stunning and perfectly aligned with a more balanced, restorative way of living. It’s the ideal place to slow down, breathe, and truly reconnect with yourself.

A Naturopathic Reflection

What I loved most about Florence and Tuscany is how naturally they support a balanced approach to health.

Meals are enjoyed slowly, ingredients are respected, and there is a strong connection between food, culture, and wellbeing.

It’s a beautiful reminder that nourishment is about more than just nutrients — it’s about:

• Slowing down

• Enjoying your food

• Connecting with your environment

• Finding joy in the experience

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been hesitant about travelling due to dietary requirements, I hope this reassures you. Florence and Tuscany make it easy to eat well, feel nourished, and fully enjoy the experience.

It’s a place I already can’t wait to return to 🇮🇹✨

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